Craving that comforting, cheesy, and slightly spicy chili mac from Steak 'n Shake? We've got you covered! This copycat recipe brings all the deliciousness of that iconic dish right to your kitchen. Get ready for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat. This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can make from the comfort of your own home, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 ounce) can chili (your favorite kind!)
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk or cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside. This is a crucial step for achieving the perfect texture in your chili mac.
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Brown the beef: While the pasta cooks, heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. This simple step helps to remove excess fat and ensures a leaner, healthier meal.
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Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Building flavor from the base is key to a delicious dish.
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Simmer the chili: Add the chili, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. Low and slow cooking unlocks the best flavors from your spices.
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Combine and melt: Stir in the cooked macaroni and shredded cheddar cheese. If you like a creamier chili mac, stir in the milk or cream as well. Cook until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through. A simple step that adds a significant boost to the overall texture and taste.
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Serve and enjoy: Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired, and serve immediately. This easy recipe offers a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat. Feel free to experiment with different chili powders to find your perfect level of spice.
- Add some beans: Include a can of drained and rinsed kidney beans or black beans for added protein and fiber. This quick change significantly increases the nutritional value of your dish.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a Mexican blend.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or crumbled vegetarian crumbles for a hearty vegetarian chili mac.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
This Steak 'n Shake Chili Mac recipe is a surefire way to satisfy your cravings for comfort food. It's an easy recipe to follow, offering a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!